Walkie-talkies changed golf course maintenance because they let everyone hear the same message at the same time. Today, we are surrounded by a new generation of connected tools – moisture meters, GPS sprayers, telematics on equipment, shared apps and cloud storage. The real value of all this technology isn’t just the data collection and sharing; it helps ensure that everyone is on the same page.
A mechanic can receive an update about a reel not spinning while the operator is still on the machine. Moisture readings from different greens can upload to the cloud so every person involved with hand watering can see priority areas before they even leave the shop. Shared task lists and job boards let assistant superintendents update progress in real time, so adjustments are easy. When information moves quickly, people can too.
Smart boards and e-notebooks are becoming the new “front of the room” for many teams. Instead of crowding around a paper map, you can pull up an aerial image of the course, zoom in to a single fairway, and sketch mowing patterns, traffic routes, or no-go zones directly on the screen. Those drawings can be saved for a future meeting or shared to phones and tablets.
These tools also help bridge language barriers. A picture of a green with arrows, circles and color-coded notes is easier to understand than a verbal explanation in a second language. For new employees, being able to visually follow the day’s assignments on a map can build confidence and reduce mistakes.
The good news is that you don’t need a huge budget to start connecting your team. Many facilities already have a television in the break room – a simple USB internet stick or streaming device can bring that screen online, and in many cases you can link the phones, tablets, TVs and other devices you already have. Most newer TVs are “smart” right out of the box and can mirror a phone, tablet or laptop. Affordable tablets and e-notebooks can join the same network, allowing staff to view maps, photos and job boards wherever they are on the property. Additionally, e-notebooks allow staff to capture field notes, document moisture checks and record meeting minutes in the moment and quickly sync them to the cloud for the whole team to access.
The smart board takes the smart TV to the next level. It can be more immersive than a smart TV because it combines an interactive whiteboard with an online display for maps, photos and job boards. Equipment managers should also be part of your plan; make sure they can receive photos, service histories and parts lists right where the repairs are happening.
The goal isn’t to chase every new gadget, it’s to find a simple set of connected tools that fit your operation and keep everyone on the same page. The walkie-talkie was great because it connected the crew’s voices. Today, we can connect their screens, data and decisions. Advancing staff communication with technology will pay you back with fewer surprises, less mistakes and a more efficient, confident team.
West Region Agronomists:
Brian Whitlark, regional director, West Region – bwhitlark@usga.org
Ross Niewola, agronomist – rniewola@usga.org